Boho (short for Bohemian) style embraces creativity, comfort, and personal expression. One of the most popular elements in a boho living space is the addition of oversized, colorful floor pillows. These versatile pillows not only provide extra seating and comfort, but they also bring warmth, texture, and a laid-back vibe to any room. In this guide, we’ll show you how to make your own DIY boho floor pillows, combining vibrant fabrics, unique designs, and boho-inspired embellishments for the perfect cozy addition to your home.
1. Introduction to Boho Floor Pillows
1.1 What Are Boho Floor Pillows?
Boho floor pillows are oversized cushions made from a mix of vibrant, textured fabrics and decorative elements that align with the relaxed, eclectic style of bohemian décor. These pillows typically feature patterns inspired by global cultures, natural tones, and rich textures, making them a standout feature in any cozy living space.
1.2 Why Floor Pillows Are Essential for a Boho Living Space
In boho décor, comfort and creativity are key, and floor pillows offer both. They provide a versatile, casual seating option that encourages lounging and relaxation. Whether used for extra seating during gatherings or to create a quiet reading corner, floor pillows help transform your home into a welcoming, laid-back sanctuary.
1.3 Customizing Floor Pillows to Reflect Your Style
One of the joys of making your own boho floor pillows is the ability to customize them to fit your personal style. From the fabric choices to the patterns and embellishments, DIY pillows allow you to mix and match different textures and colors that speak to your unique aesthetic.
1.4 Benefits of DIY Boho Pillows vs. Store-Bought
While store-bought boho pillows can be expensive, making your own is not only more affordable but also more rewarding. DIY pillows let you choose sustainable materials, customize the size, and add personalized touches. Plus, the handmade quality adds a personal connection to your space.
2. Materials Needed for DIY Boho Floor Pillows
2.1 Fabric Options: Cotton, Linen, Velvet, and Woven Textiles
The fabric you choose for your boho floor pillow sets the tone for its style. Popular fabric choices include:
- Cotton: Breathable and versatile, cotton is easy to work with and comes in a wide range of patterns.
- Linen: A great choice for a more rustic, textured look.
- Velvet: For a touch of luxe comfort, velvet adds softness and depth.
- Woven textiles: Perfect for adding texture, these fabrics bring an artisanal feel to your pillows.
2.2 Stuffing Choices: Foam, Polyester Fiberfill, or Recycled Materials
For stuffing, you can choose between foam inserts, polyester fiberfill, or eco-friendly alternatives like recycled cotton or old fabric scraps. Foam provides structure, while fiberfill offers a plush, softer finish.
2.3 Sewing Supplies: Needles, Thread, or Sewing Machine
Depending on your sewing skill level, you can make these pillows by hand using needles and thread or speed up the process with a sewing machine. Either way, make sure you have strong, durable thread to withstand the weight and use of the pillows.
2.4 Decorative Elements: Tassels, Fringe, Pom-Poms, and Embroidery
Adding tassels, fringe, or pom-poms gives your boho pillows an authentic, handcrafted look. These embellishments are key to capturing the boho vibe and can easily be attached to the edges of your pillows for extra flair.
3. Choosing the Perfect Fabric for Boho Floor Pillows
3.1 Vibrant Patterns and Ethnic Prints
Boho style embraces bold, globally inspired prints. Look for fabrics with Moroccan, tribal, or floral designs to bring life to your pillows. Mixing different patterns on opposite sides of the pillow can add interest and make it a true statement piece.
3.2 Earthy Tones and Neutral Palettes
If you prefer a more subdued palette, go for earthy tones like terracotta, mustard, olive, and cream. These colors create a soothing, organic look that pairs beautifully with natural textures like jute or linen.
3.3 Textured Fabrics for Added Depth
Textured fabrics such as jacquard, woven cotton, or linen provide depth and richness to your floor pillows. These fabrics are ideal for layering, as they add visual interest and tactile comfort.
3.4 Mixing and Matching Different Fabric Types
For a true boho look, don’t be afraid to mix different fabric types. Pair a soft velvet front with a rugged woven cotton back, or combine printed fabric with solid colors. The mix of textures and patterns adds an eclectic feel that’s essential to boho design.
4. Step-by-Step Guide to Making DIY Boho Floor Pillows
4.1 Measuring and Cutting the Fabric
Start by deciding on the size of your pillow. Typical floor pillows are around 24”x24” or larger. Cut two pieces of fabric to match these dimensions, adding an extra inch on each side for seam allowance.
4.2 Assembling and Sewing the Pillow
Place the two fabric pieces with the right sides facing each other. Pin the edges and sew around the perimeter, leaving a small gap on one side for stuffing. If using a sewing machine, set it to a straight stitch and sew with a 1/2-inch seam allowance.
4.3 Filling the Pillow with Stuffing
Turn the pillow cover right-side out and stuff it with your chosen filling material. Be sure to stuff the pillow evenly for a smooth, plump finish. Adjust the amount of stuffing based on whether you want a firmer or softer pillow.
4.4 Closing the Pillow with Hand Stitching or Zippers
Once the pillow is stuffed, close the gap by hand-stitching it with a needle and thread or by adding a zipper for easy removal of the stuffing in the future. Zippers are great if you plan to wash the cover or change the stuffing regularly.
5. Adding Decorative Boho Elements to Your Floor Pillows
5.1 Incorporating Tassels and Fringe for a Bohemian Flair
Tassels and fringe are signature elements of boho style. Attach tassels to the four corners of the pillow or sew fringe along the edges. This adds texture and a playful, bohemian touch to your floor pillows.
5.2 Adding Hand-Embroidered Designs or Beads
For a more personalized touch, consider adding hand-embroidered details, such as geometric shapes or mandala patterns. You can also sew small beads onto the fabric for a more intricate, decorative look.
5.3 Using Fabric Paint to Create Geometric or Tribal Patterns
Fabric paint allows you to create custom designs directly on the pillow. Geometric or tribal-inspired patterns in bold colors give the pillow a truly one-of-a-kind look that perfectly captures the boho vibe.
5.4 Layering Floor Pillows for Visual and Textural Appeal
Boho style is all about layering. Mix different sized pillows with varying fabrics and patterns to create a cozy, inviting space. Layering the pillows together makes your room feel warm and relaxed.
6. Creative Uses for DIY Boho Floor Pillows in Your Space
6.1 Extra Seating for Gatherings
Floor pillows are great for creating extra seating when entertaining guests. They offer a comfortable, laid-back option that invites people to relax on the floor.
6.2 Creating a Cozy Reading or Meditation Nook
Place a few floor pillows in a quiet corner to create a cozy reading nook or meditation space. Pair them with a low table or lamp to complete the look.
6.3 Adding Comfort to Outdoor Spaces
Boho floor pillows aren’t just for indoor use. They make excellent additions to outdoor spaces, providing comfort for lounging on a patio, balcony, or even a picnic.
6.4 Layering with Rugs and Other Pillows for a Relaxed Vibe
Combine your floor pillows with a large, textured rug and other soft cushions for a true boho vibe. Layering these elements together creates a welcoming, cozy area that’s perfect for unwinding.
7. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Options for DIY Floor Pillows
7.1 Using Recycled Fabrics or Upcycling Old Clothes
For an eco-friendly approach, use recycled or upcycled fabrics. Old clothes, curtains, or blankets can be repurposed into unique floor pillows, reducing waste while giving your pillows a vintage feel.
7.2 Eco-Friendly Filling Materials
Consider using eco-friendly stuffing materials, such as recycled cotton, wool, or fabric scraps. These options are more sustainable than synthetic fiberfill and offer a greener alternative.
7.3 Supporting Ethical and Sustainable Textile Brands
If you’re buying new fabric, look for brands that offer ethically sourced and sustainable materials. Organic cotton, hemp, or linen fabrics are great eco-friendly options.
7.4 Repurposing Vintage Fabrics for Authentic Boho Style
Vintage textiles, such as old tapestries or rugs, can add authenticity to your boho floor pillows. These materials often come with intricate designs that lend a unique, well-traveled look to your space.
8. Conclusion: The Impact of DIY Boho Floor Pillows on Your Space
8.1 Personalizing Your Living Space with Handcrafted Pieces
DIY boho floor pillows allow you to infuse your home with personalized, handcrafted touches. The process of making these pillows gives you complete creative control, resulting in pieces that reflect your unique style and taste.
8.2 Adding Comfort and Functionality to Your Home
In addition to being visually appealing, floor pillows add comfort and functionality to your space. Whether used for seating, lounging, or decoration, they enhance the coziness of any room.
8.3 Creating a Welcoming, Relaxed Atmosphere
Boho floor pillows contribute to a relaxed, inviting atmosphere in your living space. Their soft, oversized design encourages people to sit back, unwind, and enjoy the comfort of your home.
8.4 Final Thoughts on Crafting Your Own Boho Floor Pillows
Crafting your own boho floor pillows is a fun and rewarding project that allows you to blend creativity with practicality. Whether you’re making one pillow or several, these DIY projects bring warmth, personality, and style to any living space.
FAQs
1. What size should I make my boho floor pillows?
Common sizes range from 24×24 inches to 36×36 inches, but you can customize the size based on your preference. Oversized pillows are great for lounging, while smaller pillows can be layered for extra comfort.
2. Can I use different fabrics for the front and back of my pillow?
Yes! Mixing fabrics like velvet on one side and cotton or woven textiles on the other adds texture and visual interest, enhancing the boho look.
3. What’s the best stuffing for floor pillows?
Foam provides firm support, while polyester fiberfill or recycled cotton creates a softer, more relaxed feel. Choose based on how you plan to use the pillows (lounging vs. decorative purposes).
4. Are boho floor pillows suitable for outdoor use?
Yes, but make sure to use durable, weather-resistant fabrics like outdoor canvas. You can also bring them inside when not in use to protect them from moisture or sun damage.
5. Can I wash DIY boho floor pillows?
If you include a zipper in your pillow, you can easily remove the cover and wash it. Otherwise, spot clean the fabric using mild soap and water, especially if the pillow includes delicate materials like fringe or embroidery.
6. How can I add a boho touch to a plain pillow?
Add embellishments like tassels, fringe, or hand-stitched designs to a plain pillow. You can also use fabric paint to create geometric patterns or stencil tribal prints for an instant boho update.
7. Is it hard to sew floor pillows by hand?
Sewing by hand is more time-consuming, but it’s doable! Use strong, durable thread and make tight stitches for a sturdy finish. A sewing machine will make the process faster, especially for larger pillows.
8. Can I make boho floor pillows without sewing?
Yes, fabric glue or iron-on adhesive can be used as a no-sew option, though it may not be as durable as a sewn pillow. These options work well for smaller or decorative pillows.
9. How do I choose the right fabric for a boho look?
Look for fabrics with bold patterns, ethnic prints, and rich textures. Earthy tones like terracotta, mustard, and cream are classic boho colors, while vibrant patterns can add a playful, eclectic touch.
10. How do I make eco-friendly boho floor pillows?
Use recycled or upcycled fabrics, and choose eco-friendly stuffing materials like recycled cotton or fabric scraps. Look for sustainable textile brands if purchasing new materials.